How to Remove Waterproof Mascara

Removing waterproof mascara can be quite a challenge since it's designed to resist water, making ordinary washing ineffective. But don’t worry! You can easily and effectively remove waterproof mascara by using both commercial and natural products. Since waterproof mascara can dry out and damage your lashes, try to save it for special occasions. You can minimize the negative effects by applying a regular mascara first and then layering waterproof mascara on top.

Use a specialized eye makeup remover. There are several products specifically designed for removing waterproof mascara. A good eye makeup remover will efficiently and safely take off mascara traces. If you frequently use waterproof mascara, investing in a quality remover is worth it.

• Choose an oil-based remover, as it works better for waterproof mascara.
• Always opt for hypoallergenic products, even if you don’t have sensitive skin. Ingredients in these products tend to be gentler on the skin.
• Go for reputable brands like Lancôme, Clarins, Elizabeth Arden, etc. These products are of higher quality and are less likely to irritate your eyes.
• Use a cotton swab or pad to apply the remover. Close your eyelids and place the cotton pad on your lashes for a few seconds, then gently wipe downward along the lashes. Repeat with a new cotton pad if needed to completely remove all makeup.

Use baby shampoo. Baby shampoo can be effective in removing waterproof mascara. It’s generally safe for the sensitive eye area, as most brands are free from dyes and fragrances and tend to be less irritating.

• Only use a small amount of baby shampoo to apply to your lashes. Be careful not to let it get into your eyes.
• Never use regular shampoo, as it may cause eye irritation.
• Use a wet cloth to wipe off the shampoo and mascara, ensuring you don’t leave any shampoo residue.

Apply moisturizing cream (cold cream). Use a product like Pond's Cold Cream to remove stubborn makeup, such as waterproof mascara. Moisturizing creams are also great for removing makeup from the entire face.

• Wash your face with your regular face cleanser, pat dry, and apply moisturizing cream as an intensive skincare method.
• Allow the cream to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before wiping it off with a warm cloth.
• Do not apply cold cream directly to your eyelids, but gently swipe it over your lashes and then wipe off.

Avoid using petroleum jelly (Vaseline). Since petroleum jelly is a petrolatum-based product, it’s not ideal for use around the delicate eye area.

• Only use petroleum jelly as a last resort and be cautious not to get it in your eyes.

Remove eye makeup with olive oil. Since your mascara is waterproof, you can use an oil-based solution to break down the waterproof properties of the mascara, making it easy to remove without excessive rubbing.

• Put olive oil on your fingertips and gently rub your lashes with your thumb and forefinger until the oil covers your lashes. The mascara will come off easily.
• If your skin feels oily afterward and you can’t remove it with a dry cloth, wash your face to remove any excess oil.

Use coconut oil. Coconut oil is excellent for removing mascara while also moisturizing the delicate skin around your eyes.

• Dip a small amount of coconut oil onto a cotton pad and gently apply it to your eyes, then use a dry cloth to wipe away the oil and mascara.

Mix a solution of water, witch hazel, and almond oil or jojoba oil. This solution has a shelf life of six months and will not cause burning or irritation to the eyes.

• Combine 2 tablespoons of witch hazel, 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil or almond oil, and 2 tablespoons of water in a clean bottle or jar.
• Shake the mixture well to ensure all ingredients blend. Use clean fingers to apply the solution to your eyes, or soak a cotton pad to remove the makeup.

Use cotton pads, makeup wipes, or cotton swabs to remove mascara. When removing waterproof mascara, it’s crucial to use the right materials to ensure you remove all the product and prevent irritation around the eye area.

• Disposable makeup wipes are great for cleaning waterproof mascara, as long as the packaging indicates they’re designed for tough-to-remove makeup.
• You can also use hypoallergenic baby wipes or a clean, damp washcloth.

Close your eyes and place a cotton pad under your lashes. This is the area where you applied the mascara.

• After placing the cotton pad under your lashes, gently press so the pad is in contact with the bottom of your lashes.
• Always remove mascara carefully and gently. Rubbing too harshly can cause your lashes to fall out and irritate the skin around your eyes. The product may also smear into your eyes and cause infection.

Press a cotton pad onto your lashes for 10-20 seconds. This step allows the makeup remover to begin breaking down the mascara.

Slowly move the cotton pad along the length of your lashes. Minimize tugging by gently wiping your lashes in one direction.

Look in the mirror to check the process. If there’s still a lot of mascara on your lashes or it’s being stubborn, continue gently wiping the underside of your lashes with a cotton pad.

Use a cotton swab to remove mascara at the base of your lashes. Dip a cotton swab in makeup remover and gently “rub” the base of your lashes to remove any remaining mascara.

Wash your face. Now that your eyes are clean, use a gentle facial cleanser to remove any final traces of makeup and leftover oils from the makeup remover.

• Be sure to wash your face thoroughly with warm water.

Moisturize your face to maintain skin hydration. After washing your face, remember to apply eye cream or a full face moisturizer, as makeup removers can dry out the skin.